On June 22, 2026, the World Economic Forum (WEF) announced the latest additions to its Global Lighthouse Network (GLN), with NIO Factory Two (“NIO F2”) joining the network as a Lighthouse. As the WEF notes, “intensifying competition in the electric vehicle sector demands faster product development, customization, and integration across R&D, manufacturing and, quality functions.” In response to these industry challenges, NIO has “created a real-time closed-loop system connecting in-vehicle Al, battery swap networks, and a digital twin platform capable of managing more than 3.6 million vehicle configurations. The transformation accelerated speed-to-market by 44% and automated 90% of R&D workflows.” Launched by the World Economic Forum in collaboration with McKinsey & Company, the Global Lighthouse Network recognizes manufacturing facilities that have demonstrated outstanding results in deploying Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies at scale. Known for its rigorous evaluation standards and independent selection process, the network is widely regarded as a benchmark for advanced manufacturing. This global network also showcases how digital technologies are being translated into next-generation productivity and value creation. It represents a shift in manufacturing from isolated optimization toward end-to-end value chain collaboration, while providing leading examples of how manufacturers are addressing challenges related to efficiency, resilience, and sustainability. As a fully digitalized smart factory, NIO F2 leverages industrial AI algorithms, foundation models, and a rich portfolio of specialized AI models that continue to evolve through in-house development. Around 80% of manufacturing scenarios are supported by AI-driven decision-making. NIO F2 has previously been recognized as a National Green Factory by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) and received the Super Automotive Factory designation from the China Automotive Technology and Research Center (CATARC). Beyond its manufacturing capabilities, NIO F2 was designed from the outset with public access in mind. As a global smart EV company committed to developing core technologies in-house, NIO strives to exceed user expectations through continuous innovation across products, services, and community experiences. By opening its factories to visitors, the company hopes to provide more people with an opportunity to experience and better understand China’s intelligent manufacturing ecosystem. Since factory tours were introduced in 2018, NIO’s two vehicle factories have welcomed nearly 300,000 visitors from around the world. As an important part of NIO’s broader innovation capabilities, the company’s advanced manufacturing system will continue to build on GLN standards, further integrating AI with advanced manufacturing technologies, and setting new benchmarks for intelligent manufacturing in China. Through high-performance smart EVs and exceptional user experiences, NIO aims to contribute to a more sustainable and brighter future.
